Introduction to viruses
Introduction to Viruses
Viruses (pronounced: /ˈvaɪrəs/, from the Latin virus meaning 'toxin' or 'poison') are microscopic infectious agents that replicate only inside the living cells of an organism. Viruses can infect all types of life forms, from animals and plants to microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.
Structure
Viruses are composed of a core of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protective coat called a capsid which is made up of protein. Some viruses also have a fatty envelope covering the protein coat. The shapes of viruses range from simple helical and icosahedral forms to more complex structures.
Replication
Viruses replicate through a process called viral replication. This involves the virus invading a host cell and using the host's replication processes to create copies of itself. These copies then leave the host cell, often destroying it in the process, and go on to infect other cells within the organism.
Classification
Viruses are classified into families and genera based on their type of nucleic acid, size, shape, and mode of replication. The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) is responsible for the classification and naming of viruses.
Impact on Human Health
Viruses can cause a wide range of diseases in humans, from common conditions like the common cold and influenza, to more serious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Ebola, and COVID-19. Viruses are also responsible for some types of cancer, including cervical cancer and hepatitis B and C-related liver cancer.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of viral infections can be achieved through vaccination, good hygiene practices, and the use of antiviral drugs. Treatment of viral infections often involves managing symptoms, as many viruses do not have specific treatments.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Introduction to viruses
- Wikipedia's article - Introduction to viruses
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